On the corner of 77^th Street and Madison Avenue lies an unassuming storefront – think no window displays or branding. Step inside, though, and you will find some of the most exquisite and luxurious fashionsin the city.  Gabriela Hearst’s new store blends into the neighborhood so seamlessly that passersby would be surprised to discover that it has only been open for a month. Located at the foot of the iconic Carlyle Hotel and just a stone’s throw away from the Metropolitan Museum of Art and uptown favorite fashion hangouts The Mark and Sant Ambroeus, the new location feels quintessentially New York.

In collaboration with architect Zaher Katerji or ZARI Architects, Hearst perfectly curated the ultimate luxury space without the intimidating nature of most high-end boutiques, Instead, she opted for a warm and inviting vibe, complete with white cashmere walls and non-treated reclaimed oak floors that add to the store’s understatement and luxury. Even more impressive is her uncompromising decision to create a sustainable environment a cause at the forefront of the designer’s mind since starting her label three years ago.

We sat down the CFDA Award-nominated designer to hear how sustainability plays a key role in the store, and what to expect from her first New York retail location.

Congratulations on your first store! Why did you choose this location on Madison Avenue for your store? What attracted you to this neighborhood?  

This location on Madison Avenue is next to the Carlyle, which is such a New York institution. Just sitting here and looking out the window, you feel like you’re in New York and you look at New York passing by.

How would you describe the overall look and feel of the new store?

We wanted to accomplish three main goals: creating an environment that was built sustainably; a place that is inviting and not intimidating, and a place where we could present our interpretation of luxury.

I think we really accomplished those three things.

What are some of your favorite design elements and/or products from the store?

I’m very excited about our handbags. They have their own unique room in the back. I like the idea of discovery. I’m excited about the jewelry as well, because it’s new. It’s really a new beginning, which is always exciting!

What’s the next step for the brand?  

The next big step is opening the second store. We’re thinking international, which is 50 percent of our revenue. The two places are London or Hong Kong. A new adventure awaits!

Why is sustainability such a key component of the brand? How did it influence your store?

It’s one of our key values. It’s something I’m personally passionate about, so it plays into my professional life. I have a sense of urgency because we do have between 10-12 years, based on recent reports, to try and revert what we can preserve. I think communication and accountability are super-important. We’ve set ourselves goals. By next April, all of our packaging will be biodegradable. It degrades within 24 weeks versus 500 years. I think it’s about setting goals and achieving them. It’s part of the core values of our brand. The most beautiful store or biggest brand don’t matter if we don’t have an environment for our children to grow in.